Re-formed British extreme-metal legends Carcass have signed to Nuclear Blast records for the world excluding Japan. Surgical Steel, the band’s first studio release since their 1996 LP, Swansong, was produced byColin Richardson (Napalm Death, Bolt Thrower, Cannibal Corpse) and mixed/mastered by Andy Sneap (Megadeth, Accept, Exodus, Testament). Joining guitarist Bill Steer and bassist-vocalist Jeff Walker in the band’s current incarnation are new drummer Dan Wilding (Aborted, Trigger the Bloodshed) and guitarist Ben Ash (Pig Iron, Desolation, Liquefied Skeleton). Expect some guest vocals from original drummer Ken Owen as well, when Surgical Steel is released this fall world-wide.

Carcass has released the following statement regarding their new found partners: “We are pleased to announce that we have found the perfect home for Surgical Steel, the first Carcass album for, what, 18 years?! We’ve inked a deal with Nuclear Blast for our new baby. We have to thank Markus Staiger for his enthusiasm and belief in what he heard, but mostly his ability to take advantage of Jeff with a bad hangover when he visited the office in Stuttgart to let him be the first to hear the rough mixes. Nuclear Blast has managed to secure this release despite interest from all the main players in what remains of the metal ‘music industry.’

“We’re also looking forward to working with our pals in the U.S. office, who have done favors for us behind the scenes over the last few years. On a personal note, Jeff looks forward to his and label manager Gerardo Martinez’ friendship to come crashing down in flames and tears in a few months.

“As long as we don't mention ‘the war,’ we think we're going to do just fine with our new teutonic home!”

Commented Nuclear Blast owner and founder Markus Staiger: “One of my all-time favorite U.K. metal bands signed recently to Nuclear Blast—it feels like a dream come true. When Jeff Walker let me listen to the new record I knew immediately that Carcass made one of their best albums ever! It is a perfect mixture of Heartwork and Necroticism with a massive production to boot. The album is without a doubt just as perfect and lethal as surgical steel itself, and exactly what both old and new fans have waited for eagerly all of these years! I am very proud to say, Carcass—welcome to the Nuclear family. It is an honor to work with this legendary metal band.”